A Seat At The Shows-NYFW FW 2018

Fur, real and faux. Metallic over-the-knee boots. Sequins and fringe. People wanting to be seen and some who wish to be obscure, in all black, like me. This is New York Fashion Week. If you have been following my journey for a while, you know I walked the runway two years ago for Smart Glamour. This time I was invited to attend a couple shows and have a seat in the audience as a Blogger! Manifestation is real people, get into it! Speak your hearts desires over your life.

Now I was not sitting front row. Nor was I at all the big shows, but nonetheless, I was invited. I don’t even know how the press teams for these brands found me, I was shocked when I received the emails. As a Blogger, usually, you send out requests for invites. I did NOT send out one request child. I knew with my back and forth between New York and Pennsylvania, I was not going to be able to attend. Luckily, the shows I were invited to, were before and after my work schedule on the weekend.

Fashion Week has always been a dream of mine, ever since I was working retail during college at Paul Smith and Scoop NYC. It was always a big deal when stylists came in to do pulls, and our CEOs would go and attend the shows. I questioned whether I even belonged there when I received the invitations. My mind has a way of humbling me real quick, like how did you get invites to fashion week? What do you wear that warrants being in attendance? After texting with my squad, they know who they are, I snapped out of it and stepped into my destiny! Get it together Karese!

First up on my agenda, Dan Liu at 9:00 AM, Saturday morning before work. Dan Liu is a Canadian designer who has a super feminine aesthetic and makes ready-to-wear clothing, featuring lace, crochet, embroidery, and beading. Like my wardrobe in a nutshell. The seat assignment I was sent prior to the show said standing, but when I arrived in the crowded studio, I was moved to the third row! I really liked a few the pieces in this collection, see them below. What I loved though: sistas of color walking the runway. There has been so much controversy lately about inclusion in the fashion industry and that was a pleasure to see.

Thanks to the Dan Liu Press Team for these amazing hi-res Photos courtesy of Getty! 

Later on that evening, 7:00 PM, after work, I headed to my next show, courtesy of Oxford Fashion Studio. They specialize in showcasing unique independent designers. This was a multi-designer show, but I really loved the couture style of Jef Albea. Upon arrival to the loft space, we were offered a drink, hello alcohol! Pictures were taken against the backdrop by the photographers they had on hand. Sidenote, all the photos that were taken of me that day, where they said they would tag me, I have yet to see. Where are my NYFW photos people?!

“Every creation is simply an expression and celebration of one’s personality, being and creativity.” – Jef Albea The Designer 

I am always here for a MOMENT. You know very over-the-top, dramatic, and stunning. That was the feeling I got from the gowns that came down the runway during the Jef Albea segment. They had drama, peek-a-boo silhouettes, exquisite craftsmanship and beading, I snapped a couple pictures for ya.

Once again, #blackgirlmagic was prevalent on the runway. I had to stand at this show, my feet are still killing me. Unless you are guaranteed a seat, dressing for comfort at Fashion Week is a major key. I wore a stacked heel bootie, which I usually rip around in all day at work, but I am seated. Next time (because I am manifesting that there will be a next time), I’ll be sure to pack flats!

I was happy I put my insecurities to the side and attended the shows my schedule permitted. There was one show I reallllly wanted to attend on Sunday, showcasing a black female designer, but I had to work. These bills aren’t going to pay themselves. Thanks to The Riviere Agency for the invites, I am forever grateful to have been granted a seat at New York Fashion Week 2018!

Be sure to support your local, independent designer. Everyone’s dream can only become a reality if people are supporting them! These two designers are now on my fashion radar and I look forward to seeing what they have in store for us!